What are the key 2026 roster and transfer dates for MLS clubs?

Q: What are the key 2026 roster and transfer dates for MLS clubs?

From the MLS 2026 roster rules (as of February 3, 2026): Roster Compliance Date: Friday, February 20, 2026 by 8 p.m. ET. Clubs must be roster and budget compliant for the start of the season. Primary Transfer Window: Monday, January 26 to Thursday, March 26, 2026. Secondary Transfer Window: Monday, July 13 to Wednesday, September 2, 2026. Roster Freeze Date: Friday, October 9, 2026. Clubs must submit their final 30-player roster, and rosters cannot be changed from that date through the day after MLS Cup, subject to Extreme Hardship. Source: https://www.mlssoccer.com/about/roster-rules-and-regulations

Question

Accepted Answer

From the MLS 2026 roster rules (as of February 3, 2026):

Roster Compliance Date: Friday, February 20, 2026 by 8 p.m. ET. Clubs must be roster and budget compliant for the start of the season.
Primary Transfer Window: Monday, January 26 to Thursday, March 26, 2026.
Secondary Transfer Window: Monday, July 13 to Wednesday, September 2, 2026.
Roster Freeze Date: Friday, October 9, 2026. Clubs must submit their final 30-player roster, and rosters cannot be changed from that date through the day after MLS Cup, subject to Extreme Hardship.

Source: https://www.mlssoccer.com/about/roster-rules-and-regulations